SEPTA schedules track renewal project for Route 34 trolley

Track renewal for the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority will take place on Baltimore Avenue from 40th to 42nd Street, 49th to 52nd Street, 54th to 55th Street and at the intersection at 58th Street.

Some of the track in this area was installed in the early 1980s. Replacement is necessary because the street structure supporting the tracks has deteriorated due to water leaks, traffic and the age of the street structure. SEPTA will excavate, renew and pave approximately 7,500 track feet eastbound and westbound. The new track will result in reduced sound, as the continuous welded rail will eliminate rail joints; reduced vibration because the new rail is incased in an insulated rubber boot and a smoother ride due to the new track structure also being encased by rubber boot.

The project will be completed in four phases:

Phase 1, June 17-July 7, 2012: Reconstruction of both tracks between 40th and 42nd Streets.

Phase 2, July 1-August 4, 2012: Reconstruction of both tracks between 49th and 52nd Streets.

Phase 3, July 29-August 18, 2012: Reconstruction of both tracks between 54th and 55th Streets.

Phase 4, August 11-September 1, 2012: Reconstruction of both tracks through the intersection of 58th Street and Baltimore Avenue.